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Overview
Martin Van Buren served as the 8th President of the United States from 1837 to 1841. He enforced the Indian Removal Act signed by his predecessor Andrew Jackson, overseeing the forced removal of the Cherokee and other Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in what became known as the Trail of Tears, resulting in the deaths of thousands.
Key Affiliations
Controversies & Concerns
Enforced the Indian Removal Act, directly overseeing the Trail of Tears
Refused to halt the forced removal of Cherokee despite Supreme Court rulings
Thousands of Native Americans died during forced marches under his administration
Related Investigations (1)
Known Associates & Connections
Andrew Jackson
VP under Jackson; continued Indian Removal as president
Winfield Scott
General who carried out Cherokee removal under Van Buren
Sources & Documentation
1 documented sources from official records, investigations, and reports
Personal Information
- Born
- December 5, 1782
- Birthplace
- Kinderhook, New York
Education
Key Timeline
1837
Inaugurated as 8th President, inherited Indian Removal Act enforcement
1838
Ordered military enforcement of Cherokee removal, the Trail of Tears
1838-1839
Approximately 4,000 Cherokee died during the forced march westward